Pramila Bishwakarma,

Ms. Pramila Bishwakarma, a single woman from Ward No. 7 of Lahan, is currently serving as a Ward Member of Ward No. 7. She has a family of six children, including three sons and three daughters. All three daughters are now married, and she currently lives with her three sons and one daughter-in-law. Around three years ago, her husband passed away due to illness, after which she has been living as a single woman.

During her husband’s lifetime, she was encouraged by the Nepali Congress to participate in the 2079 local level election as a Dalit Women Member candidate. Accepting the party’s request, she decided to run in the election. With the full support of her husband, along with her own hard work, active involvement in the community, and strong connection with local people, she was elected. At the time of taking responsibility as a first-time elected representative, she felt a great sense of happiness. However, since she had never worked in such a role before and had no prior experience, she found it very difficult to speak with people or introduce herself in public spaces. Even when attending meetings, she did not clearly understand what would happen there, what her role was, or what points she should present. She would simply sign documents as they were presented to her. In this way, her term was progressing. Due to the lack of access to proper training and programs, she often felt difficulties in carrying out her responsibilities effectively.

In this context, under the Samaan Project, the DidiBahini organized a three-day training program. Ms. Kabita Chaudhary from the organization encouraged her to participate, explaining that such training would be very beneficial for women like her. She shared that she was very motivated by this encouragement, especially as she had long desired to learn and develop herself beyond just allowances or formal responsibilities.

As she stated in her own words during the interview: ‘Because of Kabita Chaudhary’s encouragement, I became very excited to attend the training. I traveled to from Lahan to Bardibas to participate’. She further mentioned that the lessons taught by the facilitators during the program were extremely useful for her. After attending the training, she finally felt a real sense of understanding and confidence in her role. She added that if she had received such training two years earlier, it would have been even more beneficial for her work and personal development. She expressed that it would have been even more beneficial if she had received such training earlier.

After returning from the training, she now feels more confident in understanding her responsibilities as a Ward Member. She has developed the courage to ask about what kinds of proposals are presented in meetings and what decisions are made. She shared, “Earlier, I felt hesitant to speak in front of others. Now I do not feel any hesitation while speaking. This training has had a significant impact on my personal life.”

The change seen in Ms. Pramila Bishwakarma is an example of personal and professional transformation. It shows that no one comes fully prepared in the beginning. With proper training and opportunities, and by applying the knowledge gained from such learning, individuals can gradually develop into capable and confident leaders.